Pathway finder
Sponsor my spouse or partner: Inside Canada
Routes people usually look at
1
Spouse or common-law partner in Canada class
You sponsor your partner while you both live together in Canada. A public policy lets some partners without valid status still be approved, if the only problem is something like overstaying, working or studying without permission, or entering without a visa. It does not cover criminality or misrepresentation.2
Family class sponsorship (outland)
Even though your partner is in Canada. Some couples choose this route, for example if your partner may need to travel. If refused, the sponsor may have an appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division that the in-Canada class does not offer.3
An open work permit
For your partner while the sponsorship is in process, if they are eligible. Generally this means the PR application has been acknowledged, you live at the same address, and your partner has valid status or has applied to restore it.
What’s usually involved
- Confirm you can sponsor and that you live together in Canada.
- Decide between the in-Canada and outland routes. The choice affects travel, work and appeal rights.
- Gather proof of the relationship and of living together.
- Complete the forms, pay the fees and submit online. Apply for the open work permit at the same time if eligible.
- Your partner gives biometrics, completes a medical exam and provides police certificates when asked.
- IRCC may ask for more documents or invite you to an interview.
- If approved, your partner becomes a permanent resident.
Documents you’ll typically need
Timing
Timing depends on how complete the application is, background and medical checks, whether an interview is needed, and the route you choose. Check the current estimates on IRCC’s processing times page.
Common pitfalls
- Letting your partner’s temporary status expire without a plan
- Choosing the in-Canada route without knowing it usually has no appeal to the IAD if refused
- Your partner leaving Canada during the in-Canada process without understanding the risk
- Weak evidence of living together for common-law partners
- A past refusal, misrepresentation finding or removal order that has not been dealt with
This is general information, not legal advice about your situation.
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